The Greatest Artist

I'm reading in Exodus, and it makes me feel good that the Lord includes detailed descriptions of artwork that He commissioned and directed. He was very specific with the artisans who created the decorations for the tabernacle and the priests' garments. The precious stones He chose to represent each of the 12 tribes of Israel must have been significant to Him, each with its own special meaning and beauty. He made sure their settings were secure as well as attractive; He took such care with every aspect of the work. It was all done according to His exact specifications, yet I sense that God also allowed for creative expression on the part of the craftsmen.

I love it that being an art director and visionary is a part of God's identity—a large part, because He Himself is the ultimate Artist, having created all that is! Could you imagine having one of the items that Jesus Himself crafted when He made a living as a carpenter? What a prized piece that would be! Or a small toy that He might have whittled as a child, from one of Joseph's blocks of scrap wood? I wonder if He ever painted them...

Oh, how I wish I could have known Jesus as a human person. But then I would probably turn too shy to talk to Him. I can't communicate with anyone of celebrity status without turning into an idiot. I always blow it somehow—always! I'm so glad that I get to have an intimate, individual and invisible relationship with Jesus, by the avenue of the Word and the Holy Spirit. He makes me feel entirely comfortable and accepted in His company, in spite of the fact that I'm in the presence of the Greatest Artist Ever.